Story byBarcelona captain getting closer to full comeback after standout Slavia Prague displayBarca UniversalFri, January 23, 2026 at 8:28 AM UTC·2 min readA recent report from SPORT has highlighted the positive progress being made by Ronald Araujo, who continues to regain his best form step by step. The outlet mentions that the Barcelona defender earned praise from both Hansi Flick and his teammates after delivering a strong performance against Slavia Prague, which was a sign that his full comeback is getting closer. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementBeyond the result itself, Araujo’s display in Prague was one of the most encouraging aspects of the night for Barcelona. Given limited minutes, the defender showed intensity, focus and physical sharpness, leaving the pitch with a very positive feeling. Those around him noted his satisfaction with the performance, as well as his clear understanding that patience is key after a difficult period away from regular football. A boost for BarcelonaAs the club’s first captain, Araujo is fully aware of the responsibility he carries, and the belief is that the coming weeks will be crucial for his complete comeback. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThe match against Slavia Prague marked another important milestone in Araujo’s return to normality. Ronald Araujo is making progress. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/)After resuming full training in the first days of 2026, this appearance confirmed that his condition is improving steadily. After the Christmas break, Araujo felt ready to rejoin the group, although his return to competitive action was always going to be carefully managed. Slow integrationFlick and the player agreed that minutes would only come when both felt the timing was right. Araujo travelled with the squad to Saudi Arabia, missed out on the semi-final against Athletic Club, and then featured briefly against Real Madrid, coming on in stoppage time and lifting the Champions Trophy with his teammates. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementHe was then left out of matches against Racing and Real Sociedad, reinforcing the idea of a controlled comeback. His involvement in Prague, therefore, was no coincidence, as it was a calculated step forward, and one that suggests Araujo is edging closer to becoming a regular option again.